This disease is defined as inflammation of the appendix, an organ located in the lower right part of the abdomen. According to Dr. Ericka Loomis of the Mayo Clinic, it is a vestigial organ that does not have any current function but can become inflamed at any time, which is why it is important to identify the symptoms of appendicitis.
One of the characteristic signs of this medical emergency is pain in the right iliac fossa, which worsens over time, according to surgeon Flor de María López and internist Stuardo Batres.
To obtain an accurate diagnosis, laboratory tests previously requested by the doctor who is attending the emergency are required. Lopez adds that appendicitis occurs most frequently before the age of 35, although it can occur at any age.
What are the symptoms of appendicitis?
According to specialists, these are the most common symptoms of this disease. If you have one or more, go to your doctor immediately:
- Discomfort in the abdominal area
- Pain located in the right iliac fossa (inguinal region)
- The pain is sharp and worsens as time goes by.
- Fever
- The discomfort is not relieved by taking painkillers
- Lack of appetite
- Nausea
It should be emphasized that this emergency must be attended to immediately, since, if these ailments continue for more than 24 hours, the medical condition may worsen and lead to peritonitis or other complications that could cause the death of the patient.
Why does appendicitis occur?
According to Batres, appendicitis generally arises from an obstruction of the normal flow of the appendix into the intestine. According to the specialist and other experts, the obstructing object can be fecal matter, poorly digested seeds, or a foreign body, among others.
In this regard, Batres emphasizes that this is the main cause when it comes to an adult patient, however, in the case of children, appendicitis usually occurs due to the overproduction of lymphocytes and immune products for the children’s defenses that can cause inflammation of the appendix.
In the event of a medical emergency, do not hesitate to immediately go to the nearest health center or private hospital to ask for help and avoid complications.